“Texas would have to opt in to allow me, who lives in Texas, to play online for money if this bill becomes law,” Barton said.

Supporters say reversing the 2006 federal ruling – named the Unlawful Gambling Enforcement Act – that banned online gambling will mean more jobs and a hike in tax revenues for states struggling with increasing unemployment and public debt.

Opponents say Internet gambling preys on the more vulnerable members of society.

The Ennis Republican answered critics on CNBC Wednesday morning, saying the bill establishes avenues that will identify both underage gamblers and of-age residents who are addicted to the practice.

“The bill has very strict safeguards protecting against underage poker players and addictive poker players,” Barton said. “There are very sophisticated programs to try and track somebody who might have a problem and then do something about it.”

Barton said regulating the industry will prevent websites from operating illegally and further avoid costly, long-term investigations by the federal government.